A modern religious city like Brasília needs a spectacular place of worship. The Metropolitan Cathedral meets that need. Bring your camera to one of the most visited destinations in Brasília and capture stoic statues, a vibrant circular nave and the remarkable weightless design of its white exterior.
Construction of the Metropolitan Cathedral began around the formation of Brasília in the 1950s. In the true fashion of its designer, Oscar Niemeyer, the building seems to defy the rules, showcasing a rare circular design with a conical roof and a surrounding reflective pool. Marvel at this iconic design that brings Christian architecture into the modern world.
The cathedral’s distinct architecture is sure to capture the attention of passing visitors. Walk around its perimeter to experience the circular building, with white parabolic arches that connect at a focal point and soar toward the skies as one. Find the entrance to the cathedral by a collection of four larger-than-life statues that represent the Evangelists of the Christian Bible.
Once inside, admire the large and colourful nave. This space is flooded with light that streams through huge triangular panes of stained fiberglass. Delight in the blue, green and brown designs on these windows that encircle the magnificent interior and create a wondrous space for reflection or worship.
Before taking a seat at one of many pews, look for a marble pillar that holds pictures of the life of the Mother Mary. Gaze upward to see a number of floating angel statues. These divine figures were made by Alfredo Ceschiatti and are suspended from the ceiling using steel cables to give them the illusion of flight.
For additional points of religious interest, explore the colourful tiled baptistery or venture to the crypt and see a replication of the Shroud of Turin.
Find the Metropolitan Cathedral along the Ministries Esplanade, near the Itamaraty Palace. The cathedral is open daily for visits except when mass is being held, which is for short periods every day except Monday. Check online for schedules for mass.
